A word to the wise: don't screw a compact fluorescent light bulb into a light fixture with a dimmer switch. Bad things will happen. Instead, procure a CFL that's been specially made for dimmers.

CUMBERLAND, Md. (AP) — A Cumberland family has lost their home to a fire caused by using a compact fluorescent light bulb in a lamp controlled by a dimmer switch.

The state fire marshal's office says such fires are rare, but they're a real danger that people should consider when replacing incandescent bulbs with the more efficient fluorescent type. Some fluorescent bulbs are specially designed to work with dimmers. Those that shouldn't be used with dimmer switches carry a warning label.

Truck driver Rick Jenkins says he didn't think to read the label before screwing in the bulb. The fire caused 165,000 dollars worth of damage to his home.

We've blogged before about the precautions necessary when disposing of these bulbs, but there are definitely benefits.